Long-time East Coast seafood joint to go

SINGAPORE - After almost 30 years in its current seaside location, Red House Seafood at East Coast Seafood Centre will be gone by March 25, when its lease expires.

It is the only remaining tenant of Block 1204, which is set to be demolished in April. The other two blocks are not affected.

The move is to create more open space in the park, said the National Parks Board (NParks), which manages the centre.

"To enhance (East Coast Park's) coastal identity, NParks strives to make available green spaces with sea views where possible," said its director of parks Chia Seng Jiang in response to queries. "Block 1204 will be removed to create more greenery and open spaces for public use and enjoyment, with a sea view."

The move is part of continuous efforts to improve the park and its amenities, he added.

The McDonald's outlet at Marine Cove was another park landmark that closed, in 2012.

The East Coast branch is one of three Red House Seafood outlets, with the other two located in Robertson Quay and Prinsep Street.

The original restaurant was established in 1976 in its eponymous red house in Upper East Coast Road. It moved to East Coast Parkway 10 years later.

Chilli crab and lobster noodles are among its specialities.

The Straits Times understands that Red House Seafood has no immediate plans to open another outlet to replace the East Coast one. The management could not be reached for comment.

One of those who will miss the East Coast branch is retiree Simon Kee, 66. He visits East Coast Seafood Centre only once or twice a year, but whenever he does so, he always eats at Red House Seafood. "Of course I feel sad," he said, when told of the impending closure. "The food here is good."

Of the seafood centre's three blocks, Block 1204 is set farther back from the shore. After it is demolished, those wanting seafood by the coast can still visit Long Beach or Jumbo Seafood.

"Access to these outlets will remain open at all times, where park users can continue to enjoy dining by the seafront," said Mr Chia.

For retiree Peter Tan, 60, that will suffice. He visits the centre a few times a year with friends, and the restaurant they choose depends on who is organising the meeting. "I don't really have a particular one I like," he said.